(In Images) Rafael Nadal Sobs Like a Kid Seeing His Footprints Forever Etched on Court Philippe Chatrier

14-time French Open champ Rafael Nadal was an emotional wreck throughout his Roland Garros ceremony.

(In Images) Rafael Nadal Sobs Like a Kid Seeing His Footprints Forever Etched on Court Philippe Chatrier

Rafael Nadal's footprint (via X)

Rafael Nadal, often called the King of Clay, has left a lasting legacy at Roland Garros. His contribution to the French Open was honored with a special farewell ceremony. A permanent tribute in the form of his footprint was unveiled on Court Philippe Chatrier. This moment marked the end of an era for the 14-time French Open champion.

The event was attended by tennis greats Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Their presence added emotional weight to the occasion. The tribute was carefully organized to reflect Nadal’s impact on the sport. Former World No. 1 Amelie Mauresmo played a key role in orchestrating the ceremony.

Nadal was overcome with emotion as he stood on the court surrounded by cheering fans. As he approached the special area near the net, tears welled up in his eyes. The significance of the moment was deeply felt by everyone in attendance. It was a heartfelt farewell for one of the sport’s greatest players.

Mauresmo led Nadal to the designated spot where his footprint was etched into the clay. This symbolic gesture served as a lasting reminder of his clay-court dominance. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, received warm hugs and praise from his fellow champions. The moment captured the respect and admiration he has earned throughout his career.

Rafael Nadal speaks on his footprint

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal recently shared his thoughts about the footprint tribute at Court Philippe Chatrier. He admitted that he didn’t realize at first that it would be a permanent tribute. Once he understood the lasting nature of the gesture, it deeply moved him. The emotion of the moment took him by surprise.

Rafael Nadal footprint
Rafael Nadal footprint (via X)

Rafael Nadal said in his post-ceremony interview:

When I saw it, I thought it would only be for this year. When they told me it would be forever, I can’t describe my emotions. It’s a great honor. I was thrilled to know it would be present on the most important court of my career.

The plaque featuring Nadal’s footprint will remain on the court as a lasting symbol. It honors his legendary achievements at Roland Garros. This gesture was part of a special ceremony celebrating his historic run at the French Open. For Nadal, it was a touching and unexpected farewell.

Returning to Roland Garros for the first time since stepping away from professional tennis, Nadal was honored in grand fashion. Tournament organizers created a memorable tribute to mark his 14 titles on the red clay. The moment reflected the deep respect the tennis world holds for him.

This recent ceremony ties closely to the earlier farewell where Nadal was joined by fellow greats. It added another layer to his legacy at Roland Garros. The permanent footprint and emotional tribute ensure that his impact on the tournament will never be forgotten.

Rafael Nadal’s son gives a high-five to the Big 4 members

The son of Rafael Nadal, Rafael Nadal jr., was in a reflective and energetic mood during the Roland Garros trophy ceremony. The elder Spaniard was emotional after he took his son to the court and remained with him all the way till the end.

Rafael Nadal Big 4 son
Rafael Nadal Big 4 son (via X)

After that, the joy came when he took his son inside the locker room. Nadal sr. introduced his three great rivals, Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer to him. Nadal jr. took his time to do high-fives with all of them.

Nadal, Murray, Djokovic, and Federer have created the most dominant era in men’s tennis i.e. The Big 4. The four of these tennis legends have collected almost 350 titles throughout the course of their careers and over a 1000 weeks as World No.1.